When your car is running reasonably well, it is tempting to leave it alone, afraid that some hidden problem will suddenly surface. You have probably heard it before--Don't wait for something to go wrong before you tend to recommended vehicle maintenance items. Save yourself money (as well as frustration and stress) by monitoring the health of your car and being proactive. You can't afford to take care of basic car maintenance!
Here are five vehicle maintenance tips that every driver should take note of:
- Check Your Oil -- The various seals in your engine will inevitably deteriorate, allowing oil to seep out, resulting in potential problems ranging from oil contamination to full-on engine seizure. Check the dipstick at least a couple of times between oil changes. If the oil level is too low, don't just "top it off" with an extra quart. Report the issue to your mechanic before the oil light comes on!
- Check Your Tires -- Your tires are a huge factor in your vehicle's ability to stop and turn effectively. Check the tire pressure about every thousand miles. Invest in a tire pressure gauge and a few seconds of your time. Correctly inflated tires can be the difference between stopping quickly or slamming into the car ahead of you, plus you'll get better mileage too. Also, have your tires rotated regularly to promote uniform tread-wear. If the tread gets down to the wear bars, it's past time to order a new set of tires.
- Check Your Brakes – Have your brakes checked every time your vehicle is in the shop for a service. A visual brake inspection works, so there shouldn't be a charge unless there is a problem. Be alert for any signs of brake failure, especially squealing noises, pedal softness, and pedal vibration.
- Don't Ignore Transmission Problems -- Take care of transmission problems before they stop you in your tracks, stranded in a strange town or on the shoulder of the road. Most mechanics do not road-test transmissions except as part of a major vehicle maintenance service, so it's up to you to report any signs of problems.
- Perform All Recommended Services – Even though scheduled car maintenance can sometimes cost more than you would like, it will help prolong the life of all the systems and parts that make your car function safely.
Tips to Remember: Save dollars, and gain peace of mind behind the wheel with regular car maintenance.
Whether you are just going for a day out or an extended road trip, our ASE Certified Technicians are happy to help you have fun and stay safe. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Elk River Tire & Auto Service by calling (763) 441-2889 or go online to www.elkrivertireandauto.com for more information about preventative auto maintenance. Our auto shop in Elk River MN, also proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
When your car is running reasonably well, it is tempting to leave it alone, afraid that some hidden problem will suddenly surface. You have probably heard it before--Don't wait for something to go wrong before you tend to recommended vehicle maintenance items. Save yourself money (as well as frustration and stress) by monitoring the health of your car and being proactive. You can't afford to take care of basic car maintenance!
Here are five vehicle maintenance tips that every driver should take note of:
- Check Your Oil -- The various seals in your engine will inevitably deteriorate, allowing oil to seep out, resulting in potential problems ranging from oil contamination to full-on engine seizure. Check the dipstick at least a couple of times between oil changes. If the oil level is too low, don't just "top it off" with an extra quart. Report the issue to your mechanic before the oil light comes on!
- Check Your Tires -- Your tires are a huge factor in your vehicle's ability to stop and turn effectively. Check the tire pressure about every thousand miles. Invest in a tire pressure gauge and a few seconds of your time. Correctly inflated tires can be the difference between stopping quickly or slamming into the car ahead of you, plus you'll get better mileage too. Also, have your tires rotated regularly to promote uniform tread-wear. If the tread gets down to the wear bars, it's past time to order a new set of tires.
- Check Your Brakes – Have your brakes checked every time your vehicle is in the shop for a service. A visual brake inspection works, so there shouldn't be a charge unless there is a problem. Be alert for any signs of brake failure, especially squealing noises, pedal softness, and pedal vibration.
- Don't Ignore Transmission Problems -- Take care of transmission problems before they stop you in your tracks, stranded in a strange town or on the shoulder of the road. Most mechanics do not road-test transmissions except as part of a major vehicle maintenance service, so it's up to you to report any signs of problems.
- Perform All Recommended Services – Even though scheduled car maintenance can sometimes cost more than you would like, it will help prolong the life of all the systems and parts that make your car function safely.
Tips to Remember: Save dollars, and gain peace of mind behind the wheel with regular car maintenance.
Whether you are just going for a day out or an extended road trip, our ASE Certified Technicians are happy to help you have fun and stay safe. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Elk River Tire & Auto Service by calling (763) 441-2889 or go online to www.elkrivertireandauto.com for more information about preventative auto maintenance. Our auto shop in Elk River MN, also proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
